The origins of “La Suvera” date back to the Late Middle Ages, as the Contea of Sienna feudal Castle of the Countess Ava Matilde de’ Franzesi, relative of the King of France Clovis and legendary as the ‘Queen of Montemaggio’. It is therefore probable that the ancient name Suvera derives from the French word ‘Souveraine’, Sovreign.
The Contea reached its height of splendour under the dominion of the powerful Ardengheschi Longobard (Lombard) family, then passing on to other aristocrats in alternating states of fortune and disgrace, finishing with its donation by the Republic of Siena to Pope Giulio II.
This Renaissance Pope, political sovereign and warrior and more well-known as patron of artists which are very famous today – in particular, Raffaello and Michelangelo – trusted Suvera to the genius of the Sienna architect, Baldassare Peruzzi, who restructured this ancient fortress into a renaissance villa by uniting medieval severity with the glory of the period.
Through weddings, hereditary succession and acquisition, the splendid residence finally passed into the hands of Marquis Giuseppe Ricci Paracciani, who, together with his consort Princess Eleonora Massimo, transformed it into an enchanting 5-star Country Relais, absolutely out-of-the-ordinary in the world of cultural tourism. Numerous reminders of famous personages linked to the ancient history of the residence decorate the elegant suites and bedrooms.
Today, the Papal Villa is in the centre of a small village hamlet arisen during the centuries, with a church consecrated in the 15th century period and other buildings added on successively which complete the picturesque complex surrounded by a park of Italian gardens from the 18th century.
- Published Tuesday, 14 January, 2014
- Modified Friday, 6 January, 2023
Facilities & Features Relais La Suvera
- Spa Facilities:
- Spa beauty center
- Leisure Amenities:
- Outdoor Swimming pool
- Comfort:
- Parking,
- Small Pets,
- WiFi Internet connection
Room facilities available Relais La Suvera
- General Services Room:
- Air conditioning,
- Direct dialing telephone,
- Minibar,
- Safe,
- Satellite tv
- Leisure Facilities:
- Bathroom with shower and/or bathtub
- Comfort:
- WiFi internet connection